Trump Backs Hilton for CA Governor Amidst Chaotic Race

California Governor Race Heats Up Amidst Candidate Shake-ups

The race for California’s next governor is unfolding in a whirlwind of endorsements and candidate withdrawals, with former President Donald Trump making a significant move by backing Republican Steve Hilton. This endorsement comes as the Democratic field grapples with the unexpected exit of frontrunner Eric Swalwell, leaving a void and increasing uncertainty in the race to succeed term-limited Governor Gavin Newsom.

Swalwell’s Exit Creates Democratic Chaos

Eric Swalwell had emerged as a strong contender among the crowded Democratic field, leading in early polls before a scandal led to his withdrawal. “He was really the front runner there for a couple weeks,” explained Marva Diaz, owner and publisher of the California Target Book, a political data think tank. “It has been such a crowded race. There’s been a little bit of confusion and chaos from the very beginning because there are so many Democratic candidates.” Swalwell’s departure has thrown the race into further disarray, despite his name remaining on printed ballots.

Strayer Gains Momentum with Key Endorsement

Amidst the Democratic scramble, billionaire Tom Steyer has received a major boost with an endorsement from the California Teachers Association (CTA). “The CTA endorsement of Tom Steyer today really does give him a huge boost,” Diaz noted. While California voters have historically been wary of wealthy newcomers running for office, Steyer’s CTA backing could prove influential. “The CTA is a huge, huge trusted messenger to the voters,” Diaz added, highlighting its importance as voters try to identify reliable candidates.

Katie Porter Faces Name ID Challenge

Former Congresswoman Katie Porter, another prominent Democrat, also possesses significant name recognition. However, she faces her own set of challenges. “She had such great name ID early on and she was really rising in the polls last year,” Diaz observed. “Then there was some negative press about her and a lot of big endorsements that didn’t go her way.” Diaz questioned whether Porter might have a “ceiling” due to her established public profile, noting that despite her work, she hasn’t gained as much momentum as expected. Porter, along with Betty Yee, are the only women in the race, which could be an advantage.

Trump’s Endorsement Boosts Republican Hilton

On the Republican side, President Trump has thrown his full support behind Steve Hilton. “President Trump has decided to put all of his support behind the Republican in this race, Steve Hilton, saying there on his True Social that he had his complete and total support,” the report stated. Diaz believes this endorsement could unify the Republican voters. “I do think that endorsement will probably help bring all the Republicans together,” she said, suggesting Hilton is now positioned to become the Republican nominee.

Harris Declines Run, Newsom Faces Term Limits

The possibility of Kamala Harris entering the gubernatorial race was a topic of discussion, but she declined to run. “The closing period is way past us. So these are the candidates that we’ll see on the ballot,” Diaz confirmed. Harris would likely have to wait another four years for another opportunity. Meanwhile, Governor Gavin Newsom is unable to seek re-election due to term limits. “California is such a big state. We’re the fourth largest economy in the world,” Diaz commented. “We have a lot of problems here. There’s a lot of people.” Newsom has not publicly endorsed a successor, leaving Democrats hoping for a clear frontrunner to emerge before the general election.

Looking Ahead to Election Day

With ballots set to be mailed out in two weeks and Election Day 48 days away, the upcoming primary season is crucial. The hope is that trusted messengers and clear indicators will help propel a single Democratic candidate to the forefront. Absent that, the voters of California will ultimately decide who will advance to the general election in November.

Source: Trump endorses Hilton for CA Gov (YouTube)